The IDEF1, Information Modeling Method, derives its foundations from three primary
sources: The Entity-Link-Key-Attribute (ELKA) method developed by Hughes Aircraft Co. ,
the Entity-Relationship (ER) method proposed by Peter Chen, and Codd’s Relational Model.
The original intent of IDEF1 was to capture what information exists or should be managed
about objects falling within the scope of an enterprise. Thus, the IDEF1 perspective of an
information system is one which includes not only the automated component, or the
computer, but also includes humans, filing cabinets, telephones, etc. A design goal for IDEF1
was that it not be a database design method. At the time of the IDEF1 development, it was
the opinion of the database community that what was needed was a way for organizations to
analyze and clearly state their information resource management needs and requirements.
This was the motivation for the development of IDEF1.
